One of the great things about Walk The Wight is the way it takes participants across some of the Islands most stunning countyrside.
As well as leading revellers through some of the Island's prettiest footpaths, such as Tennyson Trail, the walk also gives you the chance to go across private land, which is not open to walkers at any other time.
But to really enjoy Walk The Wight, you need to be fit enough to do the route you have chosen comfortably - particularly if you have chosen to do all or half of the main walk, which takes in lots of hills.
Even regular walkers might want to do a bit of training beforehand, because 13 or 26 miles is a long way over hill tracks, bumpy paths and, at times, open farmland.
 It can take up to five hours to complete half the walk from Bembridge to Carisbrooke or from Carisbrooke to Alum Bay and 11 hours to do the whole route, so don't underestimate the effort it will take.
Consider your equipment carefully - while it is a good idea to take some food and drink, you don't need to carry heavy backpacks with lots of water because there is plenty available at points along the walk.
Some of the ground is chalky and stony, so don't wear open-toed footwear. Tough-soled shoes are good, while many opt for walking boots to give their ankles better support going up and down the hills.
Don't wear a new pair of shoes or boots for the first time on the day, break them in beforehand. Wear them on your training walks to make sure they are comfortable.
Remember the weather can be unpredictable. It's hard to predict whether you are going to need sun cream or waterproofs, but make sure you take something waterproof and windproof in case of sudden showers and gusty winds on the downs. |
